Dangerous dogs: assessment and legislation

Information on the behavior of both aggressive and nonaggressive (control) English cocker spaniels (ECS) recruited for genetic analysis is presented. Information from a total of 122 dogs was gathered using questionnaires and owner interviews, resulting in analysis of 52 aggressive (5 aggressive dogs were excluded from the analysis) and 65 control dogs. Owners rated their dogs with 5-point frequency scales for unacceptable behavior toward humans (17 items), fear (20 items), barking (8 items), and aggression toward other dogs (4 items). The results show that serious, repeated growling is the most pronounced single behavior characterizing the aggressive ECS, and this seems to be the most important behavior causing owners to classify their dogs as aggressive. The other main behavior characteristic of the aggressive group was skin-penetrating bites. Snapping and "biting in general" were also frequently reported among these dogs. The objective of this study was to describe some behavioral characteristics of ECS showing owner-defined aggressive behavior, and behavioral differences between these dogs and a group of ECS with excellent behavior. <22> Accession Number 20083283665 Author Moffat, K. Title Addressing canine and feline aggression in the veterinary clinic. (Practical applications and new perspectives in veterinary behavior.) Source Veterinary Clinics of North America, Small Animal Practice; 2008. 38: 5, 983-1003. 13 ref. Publisher W.B. Saunders Location of Publisher Philadelphia Country of Publication USA Abstract Handling aggressive dogs and cats in the veterinary clinic can be frustrating, time consuming, and injurious for both employee and animal. This article discusses the aetiology of the aggressive dog and cat patient and how best to approach these cases. A variety of handling techniques, safety products, and drug therapy are reviewed. <23> Accession Number 20083220095 Author Crowell-Davis, S. L. Title Aggressive dogs: assessment and treatment considerations. Source Compendium Continuing Education for Veterinarian; 2008. 30: 5, 274-280. 1 ref. Publisher Veterinary Learning Systems Location of Publisher Yardley Country of Publication USA